Daihatsu Terios Review

The Daihatsu Terios is a fairly large car able to house four adults and was released to target the upmarket of its intended industry. Despite its large frame, the Terios is still a compact car and is sold at affordable rates against other off roader competitors. Those who cannot afford the heavy tag on the Suzuki Grand Vitara and the Toyora RAV4 will appreciate the practical investment and running costs associated with the Terrios. The car also boasts of stability on most road conditions and a smooth ability to keep up with any traffic speed. But against its more powerful competitors, how will the Terios stand out?

Pros

The Terios comes with only one engine unit: the 1.5-litre petrol that is matted to either a four-speed auto or a five-speed manual gearbox. Its worth of 103bhp power makes it more than strong enough to handle everyday use plus the off-road driving it was intended for. Acceleration time to 62mph from a standstill is just at 12.4 seconds.

You won’t have any problems driving this large off-roader, thanks to its minimal body roll and its top notch cornering ability. The Terios can attribute these qualities to its full-time four-wheel drive system, which is able to power all two wheels all throughout and add more traction when they go along slippery roads. The body is also able to easily slither and pass by and between trees and rocks, thanks to its compact size. Despite its off roader frame, you can manoeuvre through the trickiest road and off road conditions, such as a tight parking spot or a pathway ridden with trees.

Comfort is assured in the car’s well-supported seats and the generous space up front and in the rear. Even four six-footers won’t have any problem getting comfortable on long journeys. The ride gets even more comfortable as you push the rear seats back for a well-rested trip.

Drivers have a full view of the road ahead thanks to the Terios’ high seating position. The steering wheel can be adjusted as well according to height but not according to reach. All the major controls are within reach thanks to their practical layout. The cabin has a durable feel, with controls such as the reverse parking sensors and tight turning circle making each specific driving condition easier.

The Terios’ S model has the most equipment in its tinted glass, door mirrors electric adjustment, CD stereo, central locking, and electric windows at the front and the rear. The SE model comes with automatic transmission, while the SX includes rear privacy glass, an on-board computer, and alloy wheels, just to name a few.

Cons

The engine unit performs adequately for its basic performances, but the petrol engine does tend to falter in terms of noise and requires an extra push for acceleration. The compact off roader drives smoothly in terms of corners and body roll prevention, but its firm suspension enables a bumpier ride. As a result, drivers will have to dial down their speeds along rougher roads so all passengers are kept comfortable.